Annick Lever, a survivor of the Holocaust, has expressed concern about the potential repetition of history and emphasized the importance of recognizing our shared humanity. When she was 11 years old, Lever was attacked by a group of boys who targeted her for being Jewish, although she was unaware of her Jewish heritage at the time. Born in November 1943 in Saujon, France, during the Nazi occupation, Lever’s mother was Jewish and her father was Catholic.
At a mere two months old, Lever and her family were arrested and taken to a temporary prison in La Rochelle. Lever’s father, Pierre Xavier, managed to rescue her and her cousin from the prison with the help of a couple who had agreed to care for his child in case of emergency. Lever’s mother, aunt, and grandparents were later transported to Auschwitz-Birkenau, where they tragically perished.
Reflecting on her experiences, Lever stressed the importance of remembering the Holocaust and ensuring that such atrocities are never forgotten. She shared her encounters with younger generations, advocating for respect and empathy towards all individuals regardless of differences in religion or ethnicity.
Despite the hardships she endured, Lever found solace and support from Andree Castex, the woman who risked her life to save Lever and her cousin. Over time, Lever unraveled her family history and reconnected with her Jewish roots, eventually embracing her identity. She continued to share her story in various educational settings, aiming to raise awareness and promote understanding.
Now residing in southwest London with her husband and family, Lever remains dedicated to preserving the memory of the Holocaust and advocating for unity and compassion among all human beings.